Mega Doctor News
For many older adults, taking multiple medications is part of daily life. But when prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and supplements are combined, understanding how they interact can become increasingly complex.
More than 600,000 older adults visit emergency departments each year due to adverse drug events, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Medication interactions can occur when medications, foods, beverages or supplements affect one another, potentially making medications less effective or causing unexpected side effects.
A medication interaction can happen when medications, food, drinks, or other supplements react with each other. The combination may make your medications less effective and cause unexpected side effects.
Older adults may face additional risks because age-related changes can affect how medications are absorbed and processed by the body. Managing multiple prescriptions, seeing different healthcare providers and keeping track of medication schedules can further complicate medication safety.
To help local seniors better understand these risks, South Texas Health System (STHS) and Prominence Health recently hosted a special Senior Living Seminar on Friday, October 3, 2026. focused on medication interactions and safe medication management.
“Medication interactions aren’t always something people think about when they’re taking medications every day,” said Sarah Yazji, MD, Family Medicine Resident, STHS GME Consortium. “Someone may have taken a medication for years and not realize that adding a new prescription, supplement or even certain foods can change how it works.”
Experts encouraged attendees to keep an updated medication list, follow prescribed instructions and speak with their healthcare provider or pharmacist about potential interactions.
“Patients should never hesitate to ask questions,” Dr. Yazji added. “Understanding why you’re taking a medication and how to take it correctly can help prevent problems before they occur.”
In addition to the educational presentation, attendees participated in exercise and cooking demonstrations that highlighted how physical activity, nutrition and everyday lifestyle choices can influence medication effectiveness and overall health.
“This seminar helped me feel more empowered,” said attendee Rolando Gonzalez. “I feel more confident asking questions about my medications and managing my health.”
The seminar is part of the STHS and Prominence Health Senior Living Seminar Series, which provides older adults with practical health information and resources to support healthy aging and independent living.
“Our partnership with Prominence Health is centered on empowering older adults through education,” said Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations for STHS. “By providing straightforward, evidence-based information, we’re helping seniors better navigate common health challenges and make informed decisions with confidence.”
The next Senior Living Seminar will take place on Friday, November 6, 2026, at STHS Edinburg and will focus on the importance of vaccines for older adults. Attendees will learn how recommended vaccinations can help protect against serious illnesses and support healthy aging.
For additional details, visit the STHS Facebook Events page. To register for this free seminar, contact the STHS Marketing Department at 956-388-2033 or sthsmarketing@uhsinc.com.
